History of Locksmithing

Locksmiths design, install, maintain, and change locks and other mechanisms that secure buildings, doors, cabinets, and other items. The services locksmiths provide include residential locksmith and auto locksmith services, commercial locks, keys made, lockout services, lock repair, changing of locks, and other emergency locksmith services. Since most of the time the locksmith must travel to a work site, locksmith businesses have created mobile locksmith vehicles that include all the tools and parts usually needed to complete jobs. Because the ability to secure property is important, they also offer their services as 24-hour locksmiths.

In the past, locksmiths were metal workers and mechanical engineers who built locks, aligned tumblers, and created keys that would control the locks. In most recent years however, locksmiths are also electronics experts who create complete security systems, which include security door locks, digital locks, and high-security locks.

The oldest known lock was a wooden lock from the Assyrian Empire dating from around 704 BC. The wooden locks used tin tumblers and prevented door bars from being moved. The key was a large wooden skeleton key. In the 18th century advanced metallurgy techniques were developed and metal locks and keys were designed. With the development of mass-produced locks in the 19th century, the focus of locksmiths became installing and repairing locks, making keys, and creating locks for safes. Now, with the development of electronic security devices and systems, locksmiths have expanded their training and services.

In the past, there were times when property needed to be secured during non-traditional business hours. However, today, it is a 24-hour world. So, 24-hour locksmiths have expanded their emergency locksmith services. Technicians are trained in all of latest technology, and mobile locksmith vans are equipped with all the latest tools and products needed to complete the work.

The needs of commercial customers have also become increasingly sophisticated over time, and they vary depending on the areas the business needs to secure and the available budget.

A master key system can control access to specific areas or locations without an electronic access system. Such a master key system works well for today’s landlords. The landlord can have a key that is cut to unlock any of their rental units while tenants are given keys that will only unlock a specific unit. This master key system works for retail store chains as well. A district manager could have a key that will open multiple stores while keys for store managers only open their store. This system also works to limit access areas inside a business. Lower level employees would have keys that give them access to specific areas, while higher level employees would have keys that would allow them to access all areas of the business.Today’s commercial locks also need to be more heavy duty because they get more use.

Another sophisticated option for businesses is an electronic system that eliminates the need for keys. Electronic systems can require key codes, swiped cards, or biometric keys such as fingerprints. These systems can track who accessed an area at a certain time. Locksmiths can also provide businesses with security door locks, high-security locks, digital locks, safes, and drop boxes.

Conclusion

Overtime, locks and locksmithing have changed in response to changes in the needs of customers and changes in technology, which now includes locks which are connected to the internet of things. Still, whether it is residential, commercial, or automotive, whenever locksmith services are needed, customers should continue to follow some longstanding advice. First, only hire companies, who guarantee highly skilled and trained technicians. Second, look for companies who guarantee the protection of their personal property and are licensed, bonded, and insured. Finally, look for companies who willingly provide guaranteed estimates.

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Star Locksmith Philadelphia is a local, independently owned locksmith business serving the Greater Philadelphia region. Bonded, licensed, and insured, we offer professional, honest, and reliable 24/7 locksmith services. We want you to know that we are the locksmith company in Philadelphia that you can turn to, no matter how big or small the job is. Our ultimate goal is to provide every customer with exceptional quality locksmith service. Star Locksmith Philadelphia is waiting for your call - call us now at 215-488-1184!